Young Leicester Riders forward Harrison Gamble is hoping this will be his breakthrough season in his role with the team after suffering a series of injuries and an illness over the last few campaigns.

Originally from National League side Reading Rockets, which he joined when he was 16, Harrison was signed by Riders in 2013 after a short spell in Spanish basketball, but has seen his minutes with the team limited.

The 25-year-old is 6ft 10in, but he is known for a fine long-range shooting touch.

Gamble is now looking to bring an all-round game to increase his value to Riders head coach Rob Paternostro.

“My role can be a little difficult because I am never quite sure of when or the circumstances I am called upon, but it is about always being ready,” said Gamble.

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“They are getting experience every day in practice about what Rob wants and does not want, and what works. It does take time and we are still adapting as a team.”

Riders are up against Plymouth Raiders on Friday night, a side who include Gamble’s former Riders team-mate Neil Watson at point-guard.

“Neil is going to want to come in and prove a point and beat us,” said Gamble.

“And they have Kinu Rochford, a big guy we know, who is a real handful inside. He had a monster game against us in the Play-Offs when he was at Cheshire, but we are ready for them, and will be prepared.”

Tickets for Friday’s BBL Championship game against Plymouth (7.30) at the Leicester Arena are available on 0116 255 8635, or via www.leicesterriders.co.uk